South Carolina Lawmaker Arrested on Child Abuse Charges
Columbia, S.C. (AP) — Republican South Carolina State Representative RJ May has been arrested and charged with 10 counts of distributing child sexual abuse material, following a federal investigation. Prosecutors allege that May, using the online screen name “joebidennnn69,” distributed 220 files depicting toddlers and young children engaged in sexual acts on the Kik social media platform during a five-day period in spring 2024.
The 38-year-old lawmaker, who has served three terms, was apprehended at his home in Lexington County. A federal judge ruled Thursday that he would remain in custody until his trial. Each charge could result in a prison sentence of five to 20 years, with prosecutors warning that May could face over a decade behind bars if convicted.
During his arraignment, May’s attorney argued that someone else could have accessed his Wi-Fi network, suggesting the possibility of a breach related to his wife’s social media accounts. The prosecution, however, indicated that many of the files were directly linked to May’s internet address.
Further complicating matters, investigators are probing past trips May took to Colombia where he allegedly engaged in sexual activities with underage women. Although authorities have not located these individuals, comments from a Homeland Security agent suggested that the women appeared to be minors at the time.
In light of the charges, the Freedom Caucus, which May helped establish, has expelled him from their ranks. His political allies have distanced themselves, and he has been largely isolated within the Statehouse. House Speaker suspended May from his position since the indictment arose, amid a backdrop of growing concerns for child safety, a cause he previously championed in legislative sessions.
As the legal process unfolds, May’s future remains uncertain, both personally and politically.
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